McLaren’s Lando Norris enjoys a one point advantage in the standings, with ever-familiar rival Max Verstappen just behind.
The Dutchman put together a sensational weekend in Suzuka to claim his first victory of 2025, putting the pressure back on the Woking-based team to respond in Bahrain.
Verstappen’s performance earned him unanimous praise for going above and beyond in the RB21, with the 4-time Champion suggesting post-race he would dominate in the MCL39.
Whilst acknowledging his rival’s speed, Norris does not agree with this assessment.
Norris stands his ground amidst Verstappen claim
Generally speaking, the consensus in Formula 1 is that Max Verstappen is the best driver.
This has been the prevailing belief amongst fans and media outlets for some time – and was only reinforced last week.
Having claimed last year’s world title without the best machinery, Verstappen is threatening to give a superior car a run for its money once again.
For Norris and Piastri, suggestions that the 4-time Champion is winning races in an RB21 with a major deficit is obviously at odds with their own beliefs.
The McLaren pair, like any F1 drivers worth their salt, see themselves as operating at the highest level.
It is standard practice for drivers in the best machinery to downplay their advantage and emphasise the competitiveness of other cars.
Not only does this serve their own interests, but it also alleviates pressure on the team to consistently win.
Because of this, it can hardly be a surprise that Norris gave these comments when asked about Verstappen’s suggestions he would dominate in the MCL39:
“I don’t mind, he can say what he wants – I don’t care, honestly.
“I mean everyone can say what they want, and believe what they want.
“I believe both Oscar and myself are good drivers. He’s better at some things, but he’s not better in every area.
“I have a lot of respect for Max, but I also know some things are not true.
“He can come and test our car any day that he wants, and I’ll be excited to see the disappointment on his face when he walks out.”
A crucial round for McLaren and Red Bull
Regarding the development race between these teams, this weekend in Bahrain could be very insightful.
The Sakhir circuit will see various teams bringing their fist meaningful upgrades of 2025, which could shake up the pecking order.
For McLaren specifically, the circuit’s high-degradation characteristics could play into their hands.
Bahrain should be a strong event for the MCL39, which will test to what degree the chasing pack – including Red Bull – are capable of staying within touching distance.
Considering Verstappen’s strong start to 2025, the Woking-based outfit will be eager to respond with victory on Sunday.
For Norris and Piastri, preventing Red Bull from gathering any momentum is essential – especially given the Austrian team’s belief that new flexi-wing regulations will hurt the MCL39 later in the season.
In much a similar fashion to last season, the margin for error in Formula 1 is extremely small this season.
With Yuki Tsunoda showing signs of being competitive in the RB21, yet another element could be added to the battle for wins.
Only time will tell how the dynamics between the front-runners evolves.
